Nanobubbles at Hydrophobic Surfaces

Abstract

The very existence of nanobubbles at hydrophobic surfaces is controversial. On theoretical grounds such bubbles should be short-lived, dissolving under their own internal pressure. Further, a number of highly surface sensitive experiments have reported results inconsistent with the presence of nanobubbles, yet other researchers observe nanobubbles, most notably using Atomic Force Microscopy. Here I attempt to reconcile these results, describe the unusual properties of nanobubbles and the compelling evidence for their existence as well as describe some new surprising nanobubble forms. Finally, applications for nanobubbles are explored.